Golden Lions reinstate Mitchell as coach after inquiry

JOHANNESBURG: Super Rugby strugglers, the Lions, have reinstated New Zealand-born coach John Mitchell after an inquiry found him not guilty of charges relating to his coaching and management style.

"The Golden Lions Rugby Union confirm they have met with John Mitchell and have discussed the relevant matters following his suspension earlier the season," CEO Ruben Moggee said in a statement Friday.

"John will join the team when they return for their pre-season next week."

Former South African Sevens skipper Jonathan Mokuena however warned his one-time club against taking on the former All Blacks coach again.

"That will be the biggest mistake in the history of SA rugby if you allow that demon back into the Lions," he posted on microblogging site Twitter earlier this week.

Mitchell guided the Lions to the domestic Currie Cup title last year against the odds, but they were relegated from the South African conference of Super Rugby in August after finishing at the bottom of the table in 2012.

Earlier this week his Australia-based agents said he'd been cleared of all charges, which stemmed from players' complaints of his treatment.